I'm not interested in spending money on inns and the like.
I should be fine if I set up my tent anywhere as long as I stay clean, be hidden and keep moving right?
_Sebastian_Tenting? - Appalachian Trail
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#2
In the beginning of the hike I stayed in hotels/hostels on every resupply stop by after a month I realized that my finances were going to quickly so instead I started doing the splash and dash. Get close to town the day before and tent near the road then hitch in early AM, resupply then get out. Even if you only get a mile into the woods on the return you will be fine. A couple of times I just made it to the parking lot and camped just far enough into the woods where my tent could not be seen. I saved hotel stays for really crappy weather and once the weather warmed I was able to wash up daily in a handy stream or pond. I would also wash my clothes on every resupply even if I was just going to be in town for a few hours. A few times I went to the local dollar store and bought some $2 shirt and shorts to put on while my clothes were washing then dropped them off in the goodwill box on my way out.
_Big B_
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#3
Big B is right, you don't need to stay at Inns, etc. I've known several people who tented or stayed in shelters all the way. It's not my cup of tea, but if money is tight there isn't a need to stay in towns.
_Bear Bag Hanger_
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#4
Sure it's possible, but it's also good to have some money to spend on lodging if you change your mind!
Here’s a pretty good article by Weathercarrot on how to hike the AT on the cheap, with details: http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/showthread.php?p=22959#post22959
_Garlic_